HSC Covid-19 Incident Management Team Situation Report March 26, 2020 5:45pm
Hot Springs County has identified its first positive case of COVID-19. A Unified Command was activated 3/18/20 to provide coordinated efforts among local entities including: County Health Officer, Emergency Management, Public Health, Hot Springs County Memorial Hospital and other medical facilities, County Attorney, County Commissioners, Town of Thermopolis, law enforcement and others in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We will continue to be transparent in reporting to the community the progression of cases in our county. Any need for increased safety measures will be rapidly communicated to the community. I am proud of the coordinated and concerted efforts of everyone in our community to combat this COVID-19 pandemic. I am concerned about inaccurate information that may spread through the community. For accurate information, please see the links below.” Dr. Vernon Miller, County Health Officer.
Margie Molitor, CEO of HSCMH states “Though this is our first case, we do not expect it will be our last. I encourage community members to stay vigilant with protective measures as we work together to minimize the spread of this illness in Hot Springs County and the region. Hot Springs County Memorial Hospital will continue to report on the number of tests, and the results thereof, conducted at both the hospital and Clinic as we move forward. We will increase or modify safety precautions at the hospital and clinic as the CDC guidelines direct, and the needs of our patients and staff warrant.”
Hot Springs Public Health, in coordination with the Wyoming Department of Health, is providing education, monitoring those at home on self quarantine, and connecting individuals to resources in order to decrease the spread of further illness in Hot Springs County.
Red Rock Family Practice and Hot Springs County Memorial Hospital are performing the testing. If you develop symptoms including mild to severe respiratory illness with fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, contact your healthcare provider. A patient is first evaluated and tested for common infections. Results from those tests will determine further testing, which may include COVID-19.
This first confirmed positive case does not change our everyday approach to slow the spread of COVID-19. The public is encouraged to continue following these guidelines outlined by the CDC and WDH:
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Avoid close contact (within 6 feet) with those who are sick or may have been exposed.
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Stay home if sick (but if you are concerned it may be more than just a cold, please consult your physician).
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Avoid gatherings of 10 or more people.
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Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
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Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if your hands are visibly dirty.
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Cough or sneeze into your elbow and wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
Updates will be provided by the Incident Management Team twice daily at 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on the county website @ https://www.hscounty.com/covid
Accurate information can also be found on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hotspringspublichealth/
https://www.facebook.com/thermopolischamber.org/?ref=br_rs
https://www.facebook.com/hscpublichealth/
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